Edirne

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller

Edirne used to be the capital of theOttoman empire before Constantinople was conquered by Mehmet II. He then decided to relocate his court there. The city is endowed with a notable culinary heritage, imperial building stock as well as much cherished and lingering sense of civic grandeur.

Located close to the Bulgarian and Greek borders, the city has a charming European flavour which is best appreciated during the summer when the locals come here to party on the banks of the Meriç Rivers and Tunca to cheer and hoot for the contestants at the most renowned and famous K?rkp?nar oil wrestling festival. The European flavour of the city is evident not only from the architecture but also from the very lifestyle of the people living here and the culinary delights and dishes too have a taste and aroma influenced by the European dishes. So, if you want to find yourself closer to Europe, this beautiful city of Turkey, does deserve a visit.

· Make sure you have a map handy whenever you are traveling to a new destination.

· Acquire enough information before making a travel to the new destination.

· Do not drink more than you can handle.

· Keep your passport safely.

· Make sure you avoid traveling alone in the hidden trails.

· If needed, hire a guide. Make sure that the guide hired by you is only from a registered agency.

· Do not leave your important documents carefully.

· Never leave your documents in the hotel room.

· Enquire about the availability of the room safe.

· Do not get involved in any type of fights with the locals here.

· Make sure you follow the traffic rules of the country if you have rented a vehicle.

· If you are traveling in a public transport, do ensure that you have negotiated the fare before traveling.

· Never film or shoot in any public place without taking a legal permission.

· Keep touts at bay.

· Avoid consuming street food.

· Do not be rude to any local or co travelers.

· Make sure you conduct yourself in the best manner possible.

Drinking Law

The legal age for drinking
in Edirne is 18 years.

Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?

Complex of Sultan Bayezid II Health Museum

This museum is rated among the top tourist places in Edirne. You will be surprised to know that, the museum is managed at the hospital (Darü??ifa) section belonging to the Complex of Sultan Bayezid II. The complex was built by the efforts of the 8th Ottoman Emperor Sultan Bayezid II, also the son of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror. Its foundation was laid before the Akkirman War in 1484 and the construction was completed in a time span of four years. The locals believe that the architect of the complex was the famous personality, Hayreddin. However, according to researchers the architect of this landmark was Yakup ?ah Bin Sultan ?ah. Tourists flock in huge numbers in order to admire the supreme setup of the museum.

Selimiye Mosque

If you wish to check out the most attractive mosque in Turkey, then do not miss a chance to explore the square Mosque which possesses a grand dome and four slender minarets. This structure stands tall in Edirne, the former Ottoman capital. The most famous of Ottoman architects, Sinan, considered the complex that includes madrasas (Islamic schools), clock house, a covered market, outer courtyard and even a library. Selimiye Mosque is popular as one of the most impressive religious resorts in the city; you will be stupefied by the classic interior decoration that includes Iznik tiles. Tourists should access a guided tour in order to learn in-depth about the superb architecture belonging to the ancient world.

Muradiye Mosque

There are numerous places to seein Edirne, but the Muradiye Mosque holds unique importance for the locals. This mosque was built by Sultan Murat II between 1426 and 1436 and portrays an illuminated design. The landmark once housed a Mevlevi (whirling dervish) lodge which is not evident at present. Tourists acknowledge the T-shaped plan which consists of two eyvans (vaulted halls), fine ?znik tiles and an unusual cupola. The striking calligraphy highlighted on the exterior will surely stun your eyes. You can easily locate this mosque by walking a small distance in the northeast direction from Selimiye Mosque. There is also a small cemetery situated on the east side which houses the grave of the Ottoman Empire's last chief Islamic judge, ?eyhülisl?m Musa K?z?m Efendi.

Edirne Arkeoloji Ve Etnografya Müzesi

Edirne Arkeoloji Ve Etnografya Müzesi is famous for its garden exhibition that presents landscaping works offered by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. This landmark has undergone several improvements in its administrative spaces along with the advancement in terms of systems related to heating, electricity and security. The outdoor exhibition space is quite appealing which should be examined during your trip to this place. A number of stones and precious artifacts are managed in the garden of the museum that offers a relaxed environment for the visitors to learn about the different civilizations from the Ottoman water culture which dwelled in this land. Do not forget to mark this destination in your places-to-see list while touring Edirne.

Meriç Bridge

Meriç Bridgeaka Yeni Köprü, has been named after Sultan Abdülmecid I. This interesting structure is one of the popular tourist places in Edirne due to its strong connection with Ottoman history. The bridge crosses the Meriç River leading to the state road. You will be amazed to know that, the bridge is 263 m (863 ft) long and possesses a width of 7 m (23 ft) along with the presence of twelve marvelous arches.

Üç ?erefeli Mosque

The construction of Üç ?erefeli Mosque was ordered by Sultan Murat II which was built during 1438 and 1447. You can reach this landmark which is located in the historical center of the city. The name of the mosque in Turkish reveals the unusual minaret along with its three balconies. Tourists cherish the architecture which has been inspired from the Ottoman era. The use of Burgaz limestone in the construction of the mosque is truly fascinating. One of the major attractions of the Üç ?erefeli Mosque is the dome that is 24 m in diameter. Like other archeological resorts in Edirne, you will be pleased after the visit to this religious spot.

What you will like there?

Bazaars

Edirne has several shopping areas that offer authentic items. You can shop for clothing as well as interesting food items such as almond paste, Kavala cookies, deva-i misk and Edirne cheese from the prime areas of Arasta and the Ali Pa?a covered bazaar. One can even check out stuff at Bedesten (covered bazaar) which is popular among travelers. For exploring a wide range of souvenirs, you can observe various art shops in the central part of the city. The Edirne doll as well as miniature kispets are usually bought by visitors.

Cuisines

Traditional food delicacies of Edirne are full of flavors which should be tasted. You can spot any restaurant in the area that offers Edirne Tava Ci?eri and fried liver which are quite relishing. Apart from traditional dishes, you should also try Edirne's meatballs that are juicy and appetizing. What more? The city offers grilled lamb skewers that can be savored for lunch. You cannot fulfill your food tour in the city without visiting Kofteci Osman, a restaurant famous for its Turkish meatballs called as Kofteci (kebab). Kofteci Osman serves classic meatballs merged with fried lamb liver. If you wish for home-style Turkish food, then do pay a visit to Melek Anne. You will get to eat tangy pasta along with stuffed grape leaves at this warm restaurant that can be easily reached from the centre of the city. There is no shortage of food resorts in Edirne which is a huge benefit for travelers.

Architectural Richness

Edirne preserves traditional urban architecture that is quite exquisite and precious for the citizens. You will be stunned to check out the late-19th century houses which are spread out in different parts of the former Ottoman capital. Edirne is the closest destination to Bulgaria and holds some inspiration from their cultural features. Among the top places to see in this region, there are sculptures which are considered as a symbol of pride. In Edirne, a monument is dedicated to pehlivani or oil wrestlers and is indeed impressive. All the travelers who arrive on the highway from Istanbul are greeted by this marvelous statue. Moreover, you can also check out an alluring statue of Mimar Sinan which is established right in front of the Selimiye Mosque. The streets of Edirne are filled with numerous statues which make the city appear artistic & picturesque.

Cultural Merger

Edirne is indeed a cosmopolitan which makes it an important site for the Turkish population. During the 19th Century, the count of ethnic Bulgarians in this area was quite large. According to the 1905 census, there were 80,000 residents in the city out of which 30,000 were Muslims – including Turks, Gypsies, Albanians and Caucasians. The remaining population comprised of Bulgarians, Greeks, Jews and Armenians. At present, many Edirne citizens are able to interact in the Bulgarian language due to the closeness with Bulgaria right across the border. The cultural merger in Edirne will help the tourists gain useful information about the beauty of this land. You can spot a large population of foreign visitors who stay here and spend several days for getting inspired.